2 chronicles 34:27 - because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before God, when you heard his words against this place, and against its inhabitants, and have humbled yourself before me, and have torn your clothes, and wept before me, I also have heard you,” says Yahweh.

Generated Verse: 2 chronicles 34:27

What does "2 chronicles 34:27" mean?


This verse, 2 Chronicles 34:27, is a powerful statement of God's response to King Josiah's repentance. It's part of the larger narrative where the Book of the Law is rediscovered during Josiah's reign, and he realizes how far Judah has strayed from God's commands. Let's break down the meaning:

"because your heart was tender..." This highlights Josiah's sensitivity and responsiveness to God. He wasn't hardened or resistant to the truth. A "tender heart" in this context means being open to conviction and willing to change.

"...and you humbled yourself before God, when you heard his words against this place, and against its inhabitants..." This refers to Josiah's reaction upon hearing the prophecies of judgment for Judah's idolatry and wickedness. He didn't dismiss them or rationalize them away. Instead, he recognized the gravity of the situation and acknowledged Judah's guilt before God. "Humbling oneself" is acknowledging one's sinfulness and unworthiness before a holy God.

"...and have humbled yourself before me, and have torn your clothes, and wept before me..." This emphasizes Josiah's outward expressions of grief and repentance. Tearing one's clothes and weeping were common signs of mourning and remorse in ancient Israel. This was a visible demonstration of his internal sorrow and contrition. He's being praised for both internal repentance and outward display of that repentance.

"...I also have heard you,” says Yahweh." This is the crucial part. God hears Josiah's repentance. This isn't just a passive awareness; it's an active response. God acknowledges Josiah's contrite heart and promises to take note of it.

In summary, the verse means:

God is acknowledging and praising King Josiah's sincere repentance. Josiah, upon hearing the warnings from the Book of the Law, was deeply moved, humbled himself before God, and showed his sorrow through outward actions. Because of Josiah's genuinely repentant heart, God promises to hear him and, as the subsequent verses reveal, defer the full brunt of His judgment until after Josiah's death.

Key takeaways:

Sincerity of Repentance: The passage emphasizes the importance of a genuine, heartfelt repentance. It's not just about outward actions; it's about a change of heart and a willingness to turn away from sin.

God's Mercy: While God is just and must punish sin, He is also merciful and responsive to those who truly repent. Josiah's example shows that repentance can avert or at least postpone divine judgment.

Leadership by Example: Josiah's example is powerful because he wasn't just a king; he was a leader who led the nation in repentance and reform. His actions had a significant impact on the course of Judah's history.

The Power of God's Word: The rediscovery of the Book of the Law and its impact on Josiah highlight the power of God's Word to convict, transform, and lead people back to Him.

In essence, this verse underscores the importance of a humble and responsive heart before God and the promise of God's attentive ear to those who genuinely repent. It is a testament to God's mercy and willingness to forgive.

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